I think you might mean "notoriety," which is a noun referring to the state of being famous or well-known, especially for something bad or negative. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of each:
1. Infamy
- Meaning and example: "Infamy" means the state of being famous for a bad or evil deed or quality. For example, "The dictator achieved infamy through his brutal and oppressive rule."
- Analysis: It is very closely related to "notoriety" and often implies a more extreme and negative kind of fame. While "notoriety" can be for a wide range of negative reasons, "infamy" typically suggests a more serious and morally repugnant act or reputation that has made someone widely known in a negative light. It has a stronger connotation of being condemned by society for one's actions.
2. Disrepute
- Meaning and example: "Disrepute" means the state of being held in low esteem or having a bad reputation. For example, "The company fell into disrepute after the scandal involving its products."
- Analysis: "Disrepute" focuses more on the damaged reputation aspect. It doesn't necessarily mean being widely known like "notoriety" does, but rather emphasizes that the standing or esteem in which something or someone is held has declined. However, a person or thing with "notoriety" often also suffers from "disrepute" as a consequence of the negative actions or qualities that have brought them to public attention.
3. Ill - repute
- Meaning and example: "Ill - repute" is similar to "disrepute" and refers to having a bad reputation. For example, "The neighborhood had a reputation for ill - repute due to high crime rates."
- Analysis: This is a more old-fashioned or literary way of expressing a bad reputation. It's closely related to "notoriety" in that it implies a negative perception by others, but it might not carry the same sense of being as widely publicized. It's more about the general negative assessment in the eyes of the public or a community rather than the level of fame associated with negative actions.
4. Opprobrium
- Meaning and example: "Opprobrium" means harsh criticism or public disgrace. For example, "The politician faced opprobrium from the public for his unethical behavior."
- Analysis: It emphasizes the negative judgment and condemnation from others. While "notoriety" is about being known for something negative, "opprobrium" focuses on the disapproval and shame that comes with that negative recognition. It often implies a social or moral censure that can be quite severe and is directed at the person or entity with the bad reputation.
5. Scandal
- Meaning and example: "Scandal" refers to an action or event that causes public shock and disapproval. For example, "The financial scandal involving the bank made headlines."
- Analysis: A "scandal" can lead to "notoriety" for those involved. It's more about the specific incident that brings negative attention. While "notoriety" is the state of being known for something bad, a "scandal" is the actual occurrence that triggers that negative fame. So, a person or organization might gain "notoriety" as a result of being associated with a scandal.